My Nonprofit Reviews

vanliewp

Our son Nicholas, 15 yrs, has attended Camp Odayin the past three years. We were very lucky that his 6th grade teacher, Laura Prekker, was a summer camp counselor and gave us the application so Nick could attend camp. We were so excited and relieved that Nick could attend and we wouldn't have to worry if we could afford to send him. It was free! If you ask Nick what the highlight of his summer was, he will say with a smile on his face "Heart Camp"! He made friends, tried new experiences, and now realizes that he isn't the only one with chest scars and a pacemaker. This was an enormous help this year because Nick knew that he would be having another open heart surgery in Dec. to replace his homograph pulmonary valve. Nick has chosen not to share is heart disease with classmates and you really can't tell he has a disability if he doesn't take his shirt off. Spending a week each summer with kids with similiar disablilities and kids that are healing from recent surgeries has given Nick courage and confidence. While he is away at camp, we do not worry. He is under excellent cardiac care. The Doctors, Nurses, Counselors and Volunteers are professional, knowlegeable, and caring. We feel truly blessed that Nick can attend Camp Odayin each year without bringing finacial hardship on our family because of non-profit donations. Please consider donating to this wonderful organization.
Sincerely,
Shawn and Patty VanLiew